Ambulatory ECG Monitoring (St Peter's Patients): The test is often requested by the doctor if they suspect an irregular heart rate or rhythm (arrhythmia). This can be associated with palpitations, dizziness or other symptoms which may come and go.
Leaflet Details
| Title | Ambulatory ECG Monitoring (St Peter's Patients) |
| Department | Clinical Measurements |
| Author(s) | C Camargo |
| Review Date | September 2025 |
| Next Review | September 2027 |
| Download | A5 Booklet PDF |
| Accessibility Options | Click on the Recite Me button to show our accessibility resources |
Patient Information
What is a Holter monitor?
This is a portable Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring system. It is a continuous recorder which monitors your heart rate and heart rhythm over a period of time - usually 24, 48 or 72 hours.
Why is the test done?
The test is often requested by the doctor if they suspect an irregular heart rate or rhythm (arrhythmia). This can be associated with palpitations, dizziness or other symptoms which may come and go.
What does the test involve?
The test takes about 15-20 minutes. Please ask a member of staff if you require a chaperone during your appointment.
A resting ECG may be carried out first; this requires you to remove your clothing to the waist and have electrodes attached to your chest, wrists, and ankles. This procedure takes approximately five minutes and is painless.
The monitor is then fitted. It is approximately the size of a mobile phone. Three sticky electrodes are securely placed on to your chest (one relatively central, the remaining two below the breast on each side of the chest) to make the recording. Some men may need to have this area shaved. The monitor can either be placed in your pocket or hung around your neck.
How do I prepare for the test?
Please do not apply creams or lotions on your skin prior to the test. Please wear loose fitting clothes that are easy to put on and take off.
What do I have to do?
You will need to wear the monitor continuously for the required duration (including whilst sleeping at night). Carry out your usual daily activities whilst wearing the monitor. However, no bath or shower is permitted as the recorder MUST NOT get wet.
You will be given a diary to record any symptoms relating to your heart such as palpitations, dizziness or shortness of breath etc. The Cardiographer fitting you with the monitor will usually give you this ‘diary card’. If they do not, please ask for one. This provides the doctor with further information to link any symptoms you experience to the heart rhythm in order to recommend a future care plan for you.
What happens after the test?
You will be provided with, and ask to sign, a waiver to return the monitor. If the monitor is lost or damaged, you may be charged for a replacement. You will need to return the monitor to the Clinical Measurements Department at St Peters Hospital on the day that you have been instructed to do so. Please call the department on 01932 722530 if you have any concerns. Your results will be sent to your referring physician, which may be a Consultant or your General practitioner (GP). The results will be reviewed, and a letter outlining the findings will be sent to you. You will receive a copy of this letter.
Please allow 2–4 weeks for this process. If you have not received your letter within 6 weeks, please contact your GP.
